1983 Fiat 131 vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,367 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1983 Fiat 131. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1983 Fiat 131.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Fiat 131. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Fiat 131. 2006 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 1983 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1983 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Fiat 131 | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 131 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2710 mm |
